Model Train Track Design

While this site is devoted to O scale model trains, the factors that go into model train layouts and train track design are the same for all gauge trains, just at different scales. I find that there are four main components that must be considered when designing model train layouts. They are the space available, the scenic effect desired, number of trains running, and ability to access the layout for maintenance.

Model Train Layouts -Focus Points

Let’s look at that last one first. When you’re creating model train layouts it is very easy to come up with grand schemes and expansive and detailed scenery only to find that the track you ran between your town and the mountain side can’t be accessed without you physically climbing up onto the layout and carefully stepping between features to get to it. You will eventually crush either a train car or a delicate piece of scenery in your model train layout.

Throughout every step of the build process always ask yourself, “am I going to be able to get to this later?”. That one question will save you countless moments of frustration later. It’s very easy to build ourselves right out of our own train layouts. Don’t kid yourself into thinking you’re never going to need to get to something.

Large O Scale layout next to Smaller Ho Scale

As far a space available goes, most model train layouts end up becoming one of two basic track designs. Either some variety of oval track where the trains run through the countryside in a large circle or oval or what I call an “out and back” where your train runs along a wall, does a turnaround and then basically comes back alongside the track it when out on. Each one poses it’s own problems.

Model Train Layouts -Shapes

An oval or rectangular model train track design allows you the ability to build some very nice features in the center, like a complete village and depending whether or not your layout is against a wall may provide you with ample access to your track or if it is against a wall, poses a problem getting to the portion of the rails that are out of reach. You may need to build a section of the layout that can be flipped open for access from below, or as is done often build a fake mountain/tunnel scene where you can actually come up “inside” the mountain and reach out into the layout.

I find the biggest hurdle with the oval or rectangular model train layout is getting all your scenery to tie together. Whereever your scenery starts from you will need to return to in a way that it looks natural. I find that it’s better to design your landscape working from one corner out or from one side of your layout across and then figure out exactly how your track will fit into it.

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Always consider potential water features and bridges in the early stages even if you do not plan on constructing them the first time through. Pay close attention to your turn radius if you plan to do any inside loops. And leave enough room for your train yard. Many model railroaders like to spend hours working on their yards once the initial layout is done. Leave plenty of room for  service rails and maintenance buildings.

If you’re looking to mimic a real run on an actual railroad line then the “out and back” may work better for you. The major consideration with this type of layout is that you have large enough areas at both ends for your turnarounds. The beauty of the “out and back” is that your scenery can be created from one end to the other which allows you to place a variety of completely different landscapes all into one layout.  A cross country train can go from the Appalachians, through the plains and into the Rockies in just twelve feet if you’d like.

The drawback here is the depth you have to work with. If you’re confined to a layout that’s only two feet deep in the middle you don’t have a lot of room for buildings or roads. If that’s the case, then plan on a rural scene and detail the heck out of it. Use murals behind your track to add depth to a narrow layout.

Mural behind O Scale Model Train

This post is getting long so let me touch on the last item I haven’t discussed: the number of trains you plan on running. Almost everyone who thinks they are going to be satisfied running only one line and builds a model train layout accordingly is usually wrong. Think about that when you’re designing your track layout. Assume you will be adding at least one more line and leave room for additional railbeds, even if you can’t afford to put the line in right away. This will save you countless hours of rework later.

Model railroaders are usually victims of their own lack of planning. If you really want to learn from other’s mistakes may I suggest that you check out Model Trains For Beginners. This guide might save you hundreds of dollars and countless hours by avoiding the mistakes that others have made.

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